Any areas to avoid in downtown chicago?

There's gonna be bad places EVERYWHERE & ANYWHERE you go. Don't avoid ANYTHING. Just have fun and be safe. Any place in the downtown area of chitown is an awesome visit.Born n raised in Chicago.

almost any of the Burroughs in the City proper are fine, depending on your level of confidence in sketchier areas. Chicago has become segregated in many of their areas over time so there are specific areas that may appeal more to you based on your comfort level.

Any of the campuses are incredibly safe at the universities.

Check out my favorites: Wicker Park/ West Town, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Wrigleyville, Hyde Park, Loop/ Mich Ave., River North, Lincoln Square. Almost all of these areas have their own Chamber of Commerce websites for visitor info.

The loop, mag mile and museum campus are incredibly safe and nice. Plenty to do and see. Like any city--be more cautious at night.

Other places that are safe to check out: Wrigleyville, Lincoln Park, Chinatown (during the day), Hyde Park (take the Metra there during the day--Obama's hood!)

Depends on what area your college is located.Chicago is just like any other big city ie. NY LA.

Would not be a smart idea for instance to walk around 24th & Spaulding.

You can learn about what crime is happening by your college and where you will be living by typing in their addresses,zip code,neighborhood ect.... here.(Remember crime happens everywhere , Chicago really is a great city to live in)

http://chicago.everyblock.com/crime/

This is a map of Chicago gang area's by color.

http://chicagogangs.org/index.php?pr=GANG_MAPS

Good luck at college.

Your best bet to be on the safe side would be to ask a cab driver, police officer , etc.